KAUST researchers reviewed 570 papers on alcohol combustion dating back to the early 1900s, synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the literature. They developed a model that simulates alcohol combustion, gathering specific aspects to better understand combustion in engines. The study revealed properties of alcohol fuels, including high resistance to autoignition and decreased particulate matter emissions, but also increased emissions of carcinogenic aldehydes. Why it matters: This comprehensive study provides valuable insights for designing more efficient internal combustion engines operating on alcohols and addresses implications for air quality regulations.
KAUST hosted the New Challenges in Heterogeneous Catalysis research conference from January 29-31. The conference brought together catalysis researchers from KAUST and abroad to inspire future research and discuss challenges in heterogeneous catalysis. Discussions focused on new chemistry, catalytic materials, understanding catalytic processes, and activation of small molecules like methane and carbon dioxide. Why it matters: Catalysis research is crucial for KAUST's research thrusts in food, water, energy, and environment, contributing to sustainable development and green chemistry in the region.
KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) has become a global hub for combustion research within four years of its inauguration. The CCRC focuses on developing expertise in efficient, clean, and economical fuel combustion, including a 10-year FUELCOM project with Saudi Aramco. The center utilizes specialized facilities and the KAUST supercomputer Shaheen to test computations and simulations, and also introduced CloudFlame for managing research data. Why it matters: The CCRC's work is crucial for improving the efficiency and sustainability of internal combustion engines, expected to remain relevant for the next 30-40 years.
KAUST and GE have partnered to study the feasibility of using crude oils like Arabian Super Light (ASL) to power heavy-duty gas turbines. The collaboration aims to develop turbines capable of burning crude oil directly from the ground to meet Saudi Arabia's energy security needs. The research involves building a rig at KAUST's High Pressure Combustion Laboratory (HPCL) to conduct corrosion tests on turbine materials by burning ASL/AXL crude continuously for 2,000 hours. Why it matters: This partnership could reduce reliance on natural gas and offer an economically viable alternative fuel source, bolstering energy security in Saudi Arabia and potentially influencing turbine technology worldwide.
KAUST hosted the KAUST Future Fuels Workshop in 2016. The workshop brought together researchers in the area of future fuels. Why it matters: This indicates KAUST's early interest in energy research and its role as a regional hub for scientific exchange.
KAUST Professor Aamir Farooq has been named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) for his contributions to chemical kinetics research. Farooq leads the KAUST Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory, which focuses on understanding fundamental processes in energy conversion. His research currently investigates the chemistry of e-fuels, biofuels, low-carbon fuels, and zero-carbon fuels, with a focus on hydrogen and ammonia. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to sustainable energy research and positions the university as a key player in developing future fuel technologies.
KAUST Associate Professor Aamir Farooq has been named a co-recipient of the 2019 Hiroshi Tsuji Early Career Researcher Award, co-sponsored by Elsevier and The Combustion Institute. Farooq, who leads the KAUST Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory, is recognized for his work on fuel ignition chemistry. His research aims to improve fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in transportation and power generation. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering talented faculty and advancing research in clean combustion, a critical area for Saudi Arabia's energy future.
The 2017 KAUST Research Conference focused on new combustion concepts, bringing together experts from academia, national labs, and industry. Participants discussed various aspects of combustion, including energy conversion by Professor Igor Adamovich from Ohio State University. Anne Bourdon from École Polytechnique presented on plasma-assisted applications. Why it matters: The conference facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration on advancing combustion technologies, a field relevant to energy and environmental sustainability in the region.